One of the essential jobs of an athletic director is to secure major donations. In that sense, Arizona AD Desirée Reed-Francois and her fundraising team have put together a stellar September.

Arizona Athletics announced a $4.4 million donation Tuesday from the estate of Paul Muscenti, an alumnus who passed away last year. Earlier this month Arizona announced a $5 million donation from alumnus R. Ken Coit.

The donations come on the heels of the Arizona Board of Regents approving $50 million in infrastructure upgrades to Arizona Stadium and McKale Center.

The Muscenti estate donation will go towards supporting an endowed scholarship to benefit Arizona student-athletes across all sports. 

“Paul’s generosity will ensure that generations of student-athletes have the opportunity to thrive academically and athletically at the University of Arizona,” Reed-Francois said in a statement. “We are grateful for his lifelong devotion to the Wildcats and proud to honor his legacy through this endowed scholarship.” 

The donation follows a $5 million commitment from Coit. Gate 3 at Arizona Stadium will be named the R. Ken Coit Gate. Additionally, the Arizona athletic director position will be named after hm.

“Arizona needs to compete at the highest levels, and I believe we have the right leadership in place that can elevate Arizona Athletics,” said Coit. “To do that, it will require significant resources, and I am proud to do whatever I can to help ensure our student-athletes, coaches, and staff have the support they need to succeed. Naming the Director of Athletics position and having Gate 3 at Arizona Stadium named in recognition of this commitment is deeply meaningful, and my hope is that it strengthens the foundation of competitive excellence and inspires future generations of Wildcats.” 

Coit will be formally recognized this Saturday during Arizona’s home game against Oklahoma State.